1997 Escort Wagon / Radiator and idle issue

chris2585

After a few hours of driving I am losing water and building up air pressure in the radiator. There is no sign of water in the oil, No vapor coming from the tailpipe. While running the car idling on pavement, with the air conditioner running, there are no signs of any leaks on the ground. Also, at the same time this problem started, I noticed that occasionally when I come to a stop, it idles rough for a period of time. Occasionally idles rough when I first start it up, then smooths out and runs well. Any ideas what the problem could be???

93tracker5spd

Hello! Can't say for sure, but sounds like your radiator cap is not sealing well. Have the cap tested, or just replace it and see if that solves your problem, if not, look at head gaskets. If there is a small seep leak, the coolant could be steaming off in the cylinder and you would see no leak. If this is the case, repair right away, it will get worse and destroy your engine. Good luck!